SFA belatedly issue Celtic penalty verdict as VAR advice changed after Motherwell ‘handball’ error

The SFA's Head of Refereeing Operations has admitted the mistake after a controversial handball…

By Mark Pirie · Daily Record

Published: Saturday, 24 October 2026 at 9:35 AM

Key Things to Know

The SFA stated Celtic should have been awarded a penalty against Motherwell after updating its VAR guidance.
Lukas Fadinger blocked a shot from Celtic captain Callum McGregor with his arm during Celtic's 2-0 win.
Referee Steven McLean and VAR official Don Robertson did not award a penalty during the match at Fir Park.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Scottish FA referee chief Willie Collum confirmed that Celtic should have been awarded a penalty during their 2-0 win over Motherwell at Fir Park. Celtic captain Callum McGregor's shot struck the arm of Motherwell player Lukas Fadinger, but on-field referee Steven McLean awarded only a corner. Collum stated that VAR official Don Robertson should have intervened to recommend an on-field review.

Collum explained on Sky Sports' VAR Review Show that Fadinger took a risk by leaving his arm in an unnatural position away from his body. Moving forward, updated coaching instructions require VAR to intervene and award a penalty in similar situations.

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SFA belatedly issue Celtic penalty verdict as VAR advice changed after Motherwell ‘handball’ error

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